Former World Cup winning New Zealand coach Graham Henry has been hired as Argentina’s technical consultant.

The Pumas will participate for the first time in what has become the Rugby Championship, competing against South Africa, New Zealand and Australia. The move is a major coup for Argentina, who are expected to be able to pick from their best players.

Henry will work closely with head coach Santiago Phelan on analysis and tactics as well as with the UAR’s High Performance department to help improve coaching and planning.

‘Argentina’s entry into the championship will be exciting but at the same time a massive challenge,’ said Henry at a press conference in Buenos Aires.

‘It will be a big test to compete against the three top-ranked teams in the world. During seven weeks of the year, my role will be to offer help in creating a nationwide programme that will enable the UAR’s leading coaches to build a more competitive national team.

‘I hope that my eight years of experience of coaching in the Tri-Nations can help me to make a difference in my new role.’